This study presents a comprehensive Monte Carlo simulation model developed to thoroughly investigate the behaviour and impact of systematic errors in geodetic angle-measuring instruments. The model is highly flexible and scalable, allowing for the simulation of a wide array of typical systematic errors, including collimation, zero-point, additive and multiplicative distance errors, horizontal axis tilt, and angular eccentricity. By directly simulating measurements and applying these errors, the model enables a detailed analysis of their propagation into X, Y, and Z coordinates across various measurement configurations.
A key finding from the simulation results was the identification of a significant linear correlation between planar and vertical coordinate errors. This correlation was primarily attributed to the vertical circle zero-point error. While this error's most pronounced effect is on the vertical coordinate, the study confirmed its consistent, albeit subtle (typically at the fourth decimal place), influence on planar coordinates. This planar manifestation was found to be dependent on the object's orientation and the larger linear dimension of the surveyed area. The developed model serves as a powerful tool for quantitatively assessing individual systematic error contributions, understanding their complex interdependencies, and ultimately optimising geodetic measurement practices for enhanced accuracy and reliability.
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